Todd Helton reacts after popping up a fly ball to center during the first inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2011, in Denver. / Barry Gutierrez, AP

by Ted Berg, USA TODAY Sports

by Ted Berg, USA TODAY Sports

Rockies first baseman Todd Helton was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol early Wednesday morning in Thornton, Colo.

Helton, who is set to enter the final year of his contract and his 17th season with the Rockies, endured an injury-plagued and largely ineffective season in 2012. And from the looks of his mugshot, he doesn't appear likely to show up at Spring Training next week in the best shape of his life. Via CBS Denver:

Yikes.

There's absolutely nothing funny about DUI, of course. It's a criminal and potentially deadly lapse in judgment, and the Rockies have already expressed their disappointment.

Though clearly Helton wasn't in the right state of consciousness to make reasonable decisions â?? or, apparently, to open his eyes for his mugshot â?? he's lucky to have escaped with only an arrest and a humiliating photo on his record.

The Rockies released the following statement in response to Helton's arrest:

We were extremely disappointed to learn that Todd was arrested this morning. This type of behavior is taken very seriously by our organization. We know that he clearly understands the seriousness of his poor decision, the harm that could have been inflicted on others and the embarrassment his mistake has caused to himself, his family, the Colorado Rockies organization and to Major League Baseball.

Todd is taking full accountability for his actions with his family, his fans and the organization. The man we have grown to know has strong values that are grounded in his family and hard work. Todd clearly understands the severity of the situation.

Helton added this statement:

Last evening I exercised poor judgment and was charged with drinking and driving after driving to a gas station near my house. I am very sorry and embarrassed by my actions. I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously. My entire career I have worked to set a positive example for my family and in our community and I fell far short of this standard.

I sincerely ask my family, the Colorado Rockies Organization, Major League Baseball and the community to accept my apology. I make no excuses and accept full responsibility for my actions. I humbly ask your forgiveness